spinal stenosis

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a medical condition characterized by the narrowing of the spaces in the spine, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. This compression can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common cause of spinal stenosis is wear-and-tear damage in the spine related to arthritis. As people age, their spines undergo degenerative changes that can lead to narrowing of the spaces between the vertebrae. This condition can also occur due to birth defects or injuries to the spine.

Symptoms

The symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of the compression. Common symptoms include:

• Pain, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness in the arms or legs
• Gradual onset of symptoms that may improve with leaning forward
• Severe symptoms such as loss of bladder control, loss of bowel control, or sexual dysfunction

Age and Demographics

Spinal stenosis is more common among people over 50 years old. However, younger individuals with a spine injury or a narrow spinal canal are also at risk.

Treatment

The treatment for spinal stenosis depends on the symptoms it causes. In some cases, conservative measures such as physical therapy and pain management may be sufficient. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.

References:

• [1] Spinal stenosis happens most often in the lower back and the neck. Some people with spinal stenosis have no symptoms. Others may experience pain, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness. Symptoms can get worse over time.
• [3] Spinal stenosis happens when the spaces in the spine narrow and create pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
• [13] Symptoms may include pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.
• [14] Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of this channel, most commonly due to degenerative spinal disease associated with aging.